With July 4th coming on a Saturday this year, and many people off from work on Friday, there are Independence Day activities going on from Friday through Sunday.
The largest fireworks celebration is always in Downtown Rochester.
That will be held Saturday night, with activities starting at 7:30 p.m. with a jazz performance on the Main St. Bridge by the Jimmie Highsmith Jr. Band.
The RPO, featuring Conductor Ward Stare, will follow with a performance of patriotic favorites from 9 to 10:15 p.m., and the big fireworks display downtown is at 10 p.m. All events are free.
Free parking is available at the Court Street, South Avenue, Sister Cities and Washington Square garages.
July 4th is one of the few major holidays that the City of Rochester doesn't have a parade, but there are other local communities with parades. The Town of Irondequoit has traditionally held one of the largest July 4th parades. It's on Saturday starting at 11 a.m., running from Irondequoit High School to the Town Hall. Irondequoit has activities on Friday as well, and you can get information on their website.
Other communities with weekend activities include:
--Brockport- music, food, games and a children's parade at the Morgan-Manning House on Saturday.
--Brighton-entertainment, food, and fireworks, other activities at Meridian Centre Park on Winton Road South on Saturday.
--Canandaigua-activities on Saturday include a parade & fireworks.
--CMAC- Patriotic salute with Ward Stare and the RPO on Saturday night.
--Chili- the annualChil-E Fest which includes arts and crafts, food, a car show, parade and fireworks on Saturday.
--Genesee Country Village & Museum-activities on Saturday include a pie eating contest, 19th century games and 50 people being sworn-in as American citizens.
--Greece- activities include a 'Freedom Run,' fireworks and other activities at the Town Hall on Saturday.
--Penfield- parade begins at 2pm at Penfield H.S. Celebration continues later at Harris Whalen Park.
--Perinton- Fairport Fourth of July Celebration- includes a parade, music, food and activities at Perinton Park.